Anushka Sharma's Support Helped Me Through a Disappointing Test Debut, Reveals KL Rahul

In a recent interview, cricketer KL Rahul opened up about the invaluable support he received from Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, wife of his teammate Virat Kohli, during a tough period in his cricket career. Rahul, who made his international debut in 2014, credited Anushka for helping him navigate the disappointment and move forward. The 32-year-old expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards Anushka for being a pillar of strength during that challenging time.

Rahul made his debut for India in third Test against Australia of the 2014/15 Border Gavaskar Trophy at Melbourne. He got out very cheaply in two innings despite India managing a draw.

In a talk show with Renil Abraham six years ago, KL Rahul shared how Anushka Sharma helped him navigate the difficult period following his disappointing India debut, offering him much-needed support during that low point.

“Both of them (Anushka and Virat) have been very good to me and I have a great story to tell you. Anushka was there to watch the Melbourne match. She could see that I was down and dejected (with personal performance) while my thoughts were all over. Anushka came to my room and told me she isn’t going to let me sit alone and think about cricket and added that she and Virat are going to take me out,” said Rahul.

KL Rahul also humorously admitted to often being the third wheel on many of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s dates, highlighting the close bond he shares with the couple.

“I third-wheeled on one of the dinner dates. Both Virat and Anushka shared their stories describing moments when they had endured failure in their careers. That made me feel like that I wasn’t the only one who ruined his first impression. We had a week’s break before the next game and they took me out every time with them. They are a powerful couple and have had a great influence on me as a couple,” Rahul added.

Rahul responded immediately with the bat in the next game- the fourth Test at Sydney with an amazing 110 in the first innings. His career took off from that point, and the stylish has featured in 50 Tests for India, with 2,863 runs to his name.

KL Rahul is part of India A side facing India B in the Duleep Trophy 2024 opener that started in Bengaluru earlier today, September 5.